Economy

Business Activity Flat in NY in April
Written by Sandy Williams
April 15, 2014
Business activity was flat for New York manufacturers in April according to the Federal Reserve Bank of New York’s Empire State Manufacturing Survey. The main index for general business conditions fell four points to 1.3.
New orders declined slightly in April while the shipments index showed little change. The unfilled orders index was negative at -13.3. Delivery times quickened a little in April. The inventories index fell 10 points indicating a slight decline in inventory levels.
The prices paid index indicated a modest price increase for inputs, while the pace for selling price increases accelerated during the month. Employment levels and hours worked both rose slightly.
The six month outlook remained optimistic with the index for future general business conditions rising five points to 38.2. Future new orders slipped slightly but remained at a fairly high level of 32. Prices paid and received are expected to decline somewhat. The capital expenditures and technology spending are expected to increase in the next six months.
Below is an interactive graphic of the Empire State Manufacturing Index History and a three month moving average (3MMA), but it can only be seen when you are logged into the website and reading the newsletter online. If you need any assistance logging in or navigating the website, contact us at info@SteelMarketUpdate.com or 800-432-3475.
{amchart id=”140″ Empire State Manufacturing Index and 3MMA}

Sandy Williams
Read more from Sandy WilliamsLatest in Economy

ISM September survey captures deepening manufacturing gloom
The Institute for Supply Management’s (ISM) latest monthly report on manufacturing reflects a bleak view of American industry in September.

Key industries concerned over government shutdown’s impact on steel, manufacturing
Trade groups cautioned that a prolonged shutdown could strain US industry.

Chicago Business Barometer catches cold winds of contraction in September
The Chicago Business Barometer's September reading indicates a softening in overall business activity in the Midwest for the third consecutive month, with new orders and backlogs retreating further.

Metalforming market sentiment takes a dive in September: PMA
Metalforming manufacturers anticipate a decrease in near-term conditions, according to the Precision Metalforming Association's (PMA) Business Conditions Report for September.

AIA: Architecture firms still under pressure
Architecture firms reported a modest improvement in billings through August, yet business conditions remained soft, according to the latest Architecture Billings Index (ABI) release from the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and Deltek.